Burchett Bill to Reduce Dependence on Foreign Oil Clears Hurdle

Nashville, Tenn. – State Sen. Tim Burchett (R-Knoxville) has sponsored legislation that would require all state agencies, universities and community colleges to develop and implement plans with a goal of reducing or displacing the use of petroleum products in their motor fleets by at least 20 percent. The bill passed out of the Senate State and Local Government Committee today.

“It is important that state entities take the lead in the effort to reduce dependence on foreign oil,” commented Burchett.  “This is just the first step, but we crossed an important hurdle today.”

SB 109 would require each government entity to have the plan in place by Jan. 1, 2008. The entity would be required to reach the minimum reduction by Jan. 1, 2010. 

The bill will now go to the Finance, Ways and Means Committee for consideration before heading to the Senate floor for action by the full Senate.

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